Focus on the Family Brings its 20th Love Won Out Conference on Homosexuality to Austin; Hundreds to Attend National Conference

2/11/2003

From: Julie Neils of Focus on the Family, 719-548-4634

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., Feb. 11 -- As Americans grapple with an onslaught of sexually confusing messages in the media, public schools and even churches, Focus on the Family will visit Austin, Texas, to host a one-day symposium designed to help the public navigate the myths clouding the issue of homosexuality.

Love Won Out is the only conference of its kind and will take place Feb. 22 at Promiseland Church.

Gay activists in the Austin area plan to counter Focus on the Family's conference with one of their own.

John Paulk, former homosexual and Love Won Out conference host said, "This conference exists for those seeking truth about homosexuality, who are troubled by the one-sided message presented in our culture. Thousands of men and women, dissatisfied with the gay life, have successfully struggled away from it. We are pleased that the Austin community has invited us to share our perspective on the homosexuality issue."

He added that the conference will address misconceptions about homosexuality as well as an understanding of how local churches can offer an appropriate, compassionate response to the homosexual community. "We encourage the public to come to our conference with open minds and hear real stories behind this controversial topic," Paulk noted.

Love Won Out is primarily led by former homosexual men and women and will feature experts in the field of homosexuality and gender identity, such as Dr. Joseph Nicolosi, Ph.D., President of the National Association of Research and Therapy of Homosexuality. Dr. Nicolosi has just authored A Parent's Guide to Preventing Homosexuality and recently appeared on the Fox's News Channel's O'Reilly Factor. Other speakers include Mike Haley, a former gay man who is now Focus on the Family's Youth and Gender Specialist; and Jane Boyer, a nurse practitioner and former lesbian.

Topics addressed include homosexuality and genetics; the pro-homosexual agenda in public schools; and homosexual recovery. Special sessions for teachers, pastors and parents will be available. Local ministries and organizations also will offer resources.

Since its inception in 1998, Focus on the Family's Love Won Out conference has shared its message with more than 15,000 people in 19 different cities and has seen nearly a 25 percent increase in attendance.

------ Please call Julie Neils at 719-548-4634 to receive further information or press credentials.